Here is an ensemble that is tied together with a theme of softness that is demonstrated in the gentle folds of fabric at the chest and at the thigh. The pinstripes of the trousers pull it together for me. I would love to see this look on men who are in need of an alternative to the sport coat.

My question to everyone is, what is your opinion of the utility of this look? Is it one that could work in a variety of settings – work, school, social functions?

I am going to sound plebeian here, but I bought a similar black silk/cashmere cardi from BR a couple of months ago, and it is truly a versatile piece. I like that everything here is basic, and in muted colors. Sometimes, you dont need a “pop” item. Great look! I wish you would let us in on the lighting secrets for this shot. Jorge from W Palm Beach

This is something I would easily wear day to day. Nice sweater, I like the simplicity of the tee and the “new classic” black/grey/navy palette. A subdued look, sort of “flying undercover”, but sometimes that’s just what you want, no need to jazz it up. It looks great on him.

here's the great thing about fashion today…i woke up this morning, had coffee, got dressed, logged on to sart, and realized i was wearing this excact ensemble, except…h&m tuxedo slim cut trousers ($40), american apparel soft grey tee ($18), gap cardigan,($30)…if you're clever about fit it's not hard to pull off the most chic and expensive looks on a budget…thanks sart for being so inspirational!

Interesting shot, Mr. S. It reminds me of Bill Viola’s slo-mo video work in the way the face is partially eclipsed in shadow and a line of tension runs from the neck to the right hand, a signal that if we wait the subject will actual turn to us. The clothes are perfect for this moment.

I’m a girl, but this photo is exactly what I think a perfect fall look should be, no matter what sex you are. It’s nice to have a second-glance theme rather than a purposely outrageous, stuck in 2008 trend-driven “wacky” look. I love a wack, but a genuine one is so difficult to come by! This man: attention to trend, most likely, but not an object of it. I wonder what he is wearing on his feet, though, because I have a hard time pairing pinstripe pants with interesting shoes. Cheers and magnificent shot!

I loved how at first glance the pants appear to be just a solid color but when you go to the closeup, you’re pleasantly surprised that there is a striped pattern. Just that subtle addition makes the photo very beautiful

What a lovely shot, Sart. Such perfect lighting. The man is elegant and interesting looking.

I think to really appreciate the ensemble one must enlarge it. The pieces are quite simple but fine. Wonderful fabrics, draping beautifully. The pants have a bit of texture that may in fact be a stripe.

Great composition, love the light on his head, face and hand. Well done.

The cardigan has a nice drape and the manner he has chosen to button it compliments the relaxed mode. Consider how this piece could be used in a more formal ensemble (fastening more buttons for more structure) and you’ll see how versatile this piece is.

Wesleyrowell hits the nail on the head: it is not the brands that make the look, but the manner in which you put the pieces together to create inspired style.

There’s just a wonderful relaxed ‘uniform’ look to this……I can’t explain it. It’s a beautiful photo, and the clothes just ‘look at home’ in Florence OR in North Korea. A relaxed, yet commanding global look that’s ‘sweet’ but mildly sinister.

“My question to everyone is, what is your opinion of the utility of this look? Is it one that could work in a variety of settings – work, school, social functions?”

You ask that like every workplace or social function is the same… I’d say this’ll do for any man at a wine bar, but not to a cocktail party. Similarly some workplaces are more strict than others about dress. I would hope no one would show up wearing a slouchy t-shirt and cardigan combination to a suit-and-tie office. The rules are allowed to be bent into pretzels from within, but really shouldn’t be broken, at least when it concerns a career. :(

Wow! I’ve been reading The Sartorialist for ages (and adore it) and although have been tempted to comment a few times, never have until now. This photo has got such an amazing sense of peace and calm, and yet is such a strong image too. Whatever that light is, it looks like the edge of heaven. Wow.

Great pic, but nobody has yet commented on the first thing that caught my eye — what I can only assume is a pack of smokes in the pocket of the cardigan. I don’t think I’ve ever seen cardigan pockets used like this. To me this is what really defines the image: he’s a man that *uses* his beautiful clothes. This is true style.

I think the picture in itself is absolutely stunning, the light and frame is so good. but i don’t think the outfit deserves that much appraisal. it’s totally ordinary, i wear stuff like all the time and I’m not on this blog. but again, if you concentrate purely on the shot, it’s great. The outfit: quite generic.